CC04 — Rancho Mirage City Council, March 3, 2022 (part 2 of 2)

Page 2 of 2 ends

4-239

First Name Last Name Email
Bitian Chen [email protected]
Nicole Criste [email protected]
Marcus Aleman [email protected]
Majna Dukic [email protected]
Jennifer Loretta [email protected]
Jason Jaurigue [email protected]
Tony Mize [email protected]
William Cutler [email protected]
Alma Figueroa [email protected]
Anna Tellez [email protected]
Jessica Leal [email protected]
Joy Silver [email protected]
Gretchen Gutierrez [email protected]
Alice Salinas [email protected]
David [email protected]
Ian Gabriel [email protected]
Ted Weill [email protected]
James Brownyard [email protected]
Alma Perez [email protected]
Deanna Mendoza [email protected]
Mary Ann Ybarra [email protected]
January 13, 2021 Housing Element Update Attendee List
4-241

Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at 16:49:50 Pacific Daylight Time

Page 1 of 2 ends

Subject:Rancho Mirage Housing Element Update - Public Review Date:Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at 4:48:57 PM Pacific Daylight Time From:Kimberly Cuza
BCC:[email protected] , [email protected] ,
[email protected] , [email protected]
, [email protected] ,
[email protected] , [email protected]
, [email protected] ,
[email protected] , [email protected]
, [email protected] ,
[email protected] , [email protected]
, [email protected] ,
[email protected] ,
[email protected] ,
[email protected] , [email protected] ,
[email protected] , [email protected]
, [email protected] ,
[email protected] , [email protected]
, [email protected] ,
[email protected] , [email protected]
, execuWvedirector@h^cv.org ,
info@h^cv.org , [email protected] , [email protected] , Marcus Aleman , KrisWe Ramos, CMC
, Nicole Criste
AHachments:image001.jpg
As a participant in our community workshop for the City of Rancho Mirage’s Housing Element Update, we wanted to let you know the draft Housing Element document is available on the city’s website for public review, from September 7 – 21, 2021.

We invite you to provide comments on the Element through this portal: https://cityofrmdev.wpengine.com/our-city/city-departments/planning/housing-element- 4-249

Page 2 of 2 ends

update/
4-250

4-251

Housing Element

City of Rancho Mirage
Housing Element Update
Appendix C
Highway 111 Inventory Sites
4-252

Safety Element
8 Safety
Introduction
The Safety Element addresses natural and manmade
environmental hazards that might occur in Rancho Mirage and surrounding areas. It provides information, goals, policies, and programs to protect the general health, safety, and welfare of the community from seismic, geological, flood, hydrology, and hazardous and toxic materials events. The assessment of and planning for these hazards and the constraints that manage them is the primary purpose of the Safety Element. The policies and programs of this element should also be coordinated with the Public Services and Facilities Element, which includes a discussion of emergency services and facilities and the City’s Emergency Preparedness Plan.

Geotechnical Hazards
Purpose

Rancho Mirage and the SOI are located in an area subject to substantial seismic and geological hazards such as strong ground shaking, seismic-induced settlement, seismic-induced landslides, collapsible and expansive soils, ground subsidence, and wind- blown sand hazards. These seismic and geological hazards can affect the structural integrity of buildings and utilities and, in turn, cause severe property damage and potential loss of life.

The purpose of the Geotechnical Hazards section, in the following pages, is to provide information, goals, policies, and programs to protect the general health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Rancho Mirage relative to seismic and other geotechnical hazards, It also serves to educate the community about seismic and related geologic hazards.

Background
Major Fault Hazards in the Rancho Mirage Area

Rancho Mirage is located in an area with numerous active faults.

At least two active faults lie close to Rancho Mirage’s northern edge and SOI, but are north of I-10 and outside of the City’s jurisdictional boundaries. These are the Banning fault and the Garnet Hill fault. Both fault zones are capable of causing damage to Rancho Mirage. Other faults in the region, such as the San Andreas, San Jacinto, and San Gorgonio Pass faults, also have the potential to produce strong seismic shaking in Rancho Mirage.

Ground shaking during an earthquake is the most significant seismic hazard that will impact Rancho Mirage. Exhibit 21 shows the faults sur- rounding the city.

The most important piece of legislation related to seismic hazards is the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act, which prohibits locating structures for human occupancy across active fault lines until geotechnical investigations determine that a prospective site is safe for habitation. The Act also requires cities to disclose to the general public areas that are subject to seismic hazards, by means of maps and other appropriate materials.

An effective seismic hazard reduction program should include the identification and mapping of geologic and seismic hazards, the enforcement of building and fire codes, and the expedient retro- fitting and rehabilitation of weak structures. Programs should also be developed to help residents provide for themselves and their families in the aftermath of an earthquake.

Other Seismically Induced Hazards

In addition to direct effects such as ground rupture and ground acceleration, other seismically induced and geological hazards can injure people and damage structures. These hazards include liquefaction, dynamic settlement, landslides, and inundation.

Liquefaction
Liquefaction may occur when loose, unconsolidated, saturated, sandy soils are subjected to ground vibrations during a seismic event. This occurs in areas where the groundwater table is within 50 feet of the ground surface and when seismic events occur that generate a Modified Mercalli Intensity value of seven or greater.

4-255

2 Significant ground shaking can suddenly increase water pressure in the pores between soil particles and cause soils to lose cohesion and to “liquefy.” Effects include a loss of bearing strength, ground oscillations, and lateral spreading and slumping. This hazard is considered low in the Rancho Mirage area, principally because the approximate depth to groundwater is greater than 50 feet.

Liquefaction may occur in or adjacent to the Whitewater River if the near-surface alluvial sediments become saturated as a result of precipitation or the recent input of surface water from the adjacent mountains. However, water percolates rapidly through alluvial materials, so the likelihood of an earthquake occurring while these sediments are saturated in the upper 50 feet is very low. Areas of liquefaction susceptibility are shown in Exhibit 22.

Dynamic Settlement
Under some circumstances, strong ground shaking can cause densification or compaction of soils resulting in local or regional settlement of the ground surface. This can result in local differential settlement and damage to foundations and structures, as well as damage to water and sewer lines. This potential is affected by the intensity and duration of ground shaking and the relative density of the subsurface soils.

Windblown sands and other recently deposited sediments are typically loose and, therefore, potentially subject to seismically induced settlement. In the planning area, development on the valley floor or on wind or stream deposited sediment should include site-specific subsurface geotechnical investigations that address this potential seismic hazard. Proper excavation, compaction, and foundation design can address some of the seismic settlement potential. Seismically induced settlement susceptibility is shown in Exhibit 23.

Landslides
Exhibit 24 shows how seismically induced landslides and rock falls can be expected to occur in the southern portion of Rancho Mirage in and adjacent to the slopes of the Santa Rosa Mountains.

With several faults in the area, there is a high potential for seismically induced rock falls and landslides to occur in Rancho Mirage. Fractures and landslides are likely to occur in the Indio Hills area, in the ocotillo conglomerate. Intense ground shaking can be expected at the top of Edom Hill as a result of the local topographical features, thereby intensifying the seismic shaking.

Scattered rock falls could occur in the Santa Rosa Mountains, in areas where the bedrock is intensely fractured or jointed. Sections of Highway 111 adjacent to the Santa Rosa Mountains could be blocked by fallen rock debris immediately following an
earthquake, which would hinder rescue and evacuation
operations. Rock falls could also impact developments adjacent to mountain slopes, especially those at the mouth of Magnesia Springs and Bradley Canyons. Throughout Rancho Mirage,
manufactured slopes of significant height could also be susceptible to failure if not engineered to resist seismically induced failure.

Inundation
Seismic events can cause failure of water tanks, reservoirs, retention basins, recharge basins, and other water storage structures, especially in areas susceptible to ground failure. There are several storage tanks in Rancho Mirage that could be subject to damage in an earthquake. Damage to these tanks could hinder efforts to suppress fires and could greatly limit supply and availability of potable water after a major earthquake. Only limited opportunities for seismically induced inundation downgrade of stormwater retention basins currently exist in Rancho Mirage. As there are few stormwater retention basins in Rancho Mirage and its vicinity, this hazard is substantially reduced, if not eliminated. The design engineering of future major detention/retention facilities will need to focus on the seismic hazards of the area when planning for and constructing these facilities.

Geologic Hazards
The physiographic and geologic histories of the Rancho Mirage area are important in that to a great extent they control the geologic hazards, as well as the natural resources, in Rancho Mirage. These hazards include collapsible soils, ground subsidence, wind erosion, and wind-blown sand. For example, wind-blown sand erosion poses a significant hazard across the Coachella Valley due to funneling of fierce winds by the steep mountain barriers. Locations at the base of the mountains are more sheltered from this hazard, but areas in and adjacent to the mountains are more likely to be impacted by rock falls and unstable slopes. Regional tectonic subsidence along the valley floor, concurrent with uplift of the adjacent mountains, is responsible to a great extent for the rapid deposition of poorly consolidated alluvium that is susceptible to consolidation and/or collapse. On the other hand, the deep alluvium-filled basin, which is bounded by relatively impermeable rock and faults, provides a natural under- ground reservoir (aquifer) for groundwater, one of Rancho Mirage’s primary sources of domestic water. The extraction of water from these aquifers may cause the ground to settle or sink. 4-256

4 4-258

5 Safety Element
Open Space for Public Health and
Safety
An important function of open space is its use as a buffer to separate people and buildings from hazards that could cause injury, damage, or death. Open space for public health and safety includes areas requiring special management or regulation because of hazardous or special conditions such as earth- quake fault zones, unstable soil or slope areas, flood plains, watersheds, areas presenting high fire risks, areas required for the protection of water quality and water reservoirs, and areas required for the protection and enhancement of air quality. Al though these lands remain open to mitigate potential hazardous situations, they have potential for other uses. Land along fault lines can be retained in its natural condition as a wildlife corridor, and flood control facilities may be usable for natural open space, wildlife habitat, and recreation.

OPEN SPACE FOR PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY GOALS, POLICIES,

AND PROGRAMS
The development review process performed by the City must assure that proposals are thoroughly evaluated with regard to seismic and geological safety, that all necessary special studies are conducted and reviewed, and that comprehensive mitigation measures are developed and implemented. Developing a
groundwater management and water conservation program and encouraging the use of recycled water will be important in mitigating ground subsidence. The City should also work with state, regional, and county agencies to establish and maintain an up-to- date database on seismic geological conditions in the region, legislation affecting the City’s regulatory responsibilities, and changing technical assessments that refine or re-characterize the seismic hazards affecting the region.

GOAL SAFE 1
A community that plans for and is protected from the effects of seismic and geological hazards.

POLICY SAFE 1.1
The City shall consult and cooperate with surrounding communities and applicable state and federal agencies to improve and update information on regional seismic and geological conditions.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.1A
Coordinate with the California Division of Mines and Geology and the United States Geological Survey to establish and maintain maps illustrating the location of seismic and geological hazard zones occurring in Rancho Mirage's boundaries and the SOI.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.1B
Coordinate with the National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to
identify earthquake risks and available mitigation techniques.

POLICY SAFE 1.2
The City shall establish ordinances and guidelines to reduce the hazards from wind-blown sand and dust.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.2A
Coordinate with the SCQAMD and other local agencies to
develop and maintain appropriate large particulate (PM10) mitigation practices.

POLICY SAFE 1.3
The City shall require the removal or rehabilitation of hazardous or substandard structures that may collapse in the event of an earthquake.

POLICY SAFE 1.4
The City shall cooperate and coordinate with public and quasi- public agencies to assure seismically strengthened or relocated facilities and other appropriate measures to safeguard water, electricity, natural gas, and other transmission and distribution systems.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.4A
Encourage and cooperate with Caltrans to stabilize susceptible slopes and strengthen bridges, elevated roadways and other structures along state highways, which may be subject to failure during major seismic events, thereby isolating portions of the community from emergency aid and assistance.

POLICY SAFE 1.5
The City shall play an active role in the development or distribution of earthquake preparedness information and materials to residents and local businesses.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.5A
Confer and cooperate with local utility companies, the CVWD, the Palm Springs Unified School District, police and fire departments, and others to coordinate public education regarding appropriate action before, during, and after earthquakes and other disasters.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.5B
Keep the City’s public awareness programs on natural disaster management and emergency preparedness up-to-date on current hazards and issues.

POLICY SAFE 1.6
New septic tank leach fields, seepage pits, drainage facilities and heavily irrigated areas shall be located away from foundations and other structural supports to minimize the creation of a localized collapse of soils and associated hazards.

POLICY SAFE 1.7
Developers of projects in areas identified as being subject to a rockfall or landslide hazard shall prepare detailed geotechnical analysis, including site response to seismic events, and require mitigation measures that reduce associated hazards to insignificant levels.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.7A
Require design of engineered slopes to resist earthquake-induced failure.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.7B
Require design of lifelines (e.g., roadways, utilities, rail- roads) that cross a fault to resist the occurrence of a fault rupture.

POLICY SAFE 1.8
The City shall encourage the incorporation of wind barriers, architectural design or features, and drought resistant ground coverage in new development site designs to mitigate the impacts from erosion and wind-blown sand.

POLICY SAFE 1.9
Where appropriate, hazard zones (earthquake fault lines, floodways and floodplains, steep or unstable slopes, etc.) shall be designated as open space, and incorporated into the General Plan land use map.

4-259

6 Flooding and Hydrology Hazards
Purpose
Rancho Mirage and surrounding areas, like most of southern California, are subject to unpredictable seasonal rainfall. Most years, the scant winter rains are barely sufficient to turn the hills green for a few weeks, but every few years the region is subjected to periods of intense and sustained precipitation that result in flooding. The potential for flooding is a safety concern that the City continues to address. It is the intention of the City to plan and implement the phased development of flood control facilities, both project-specific and citywide. Provisions for open space and multiple uses, wildlife, and pedestrian and equestrian corridors in major drainages are also planned.

Background
Desert Conditions and Flood Hazards
Rancho Mirage and the Coachella Valley enjoy a subtropical desert climate. Mean annual rainfall is very low on the desert floor, ranging from four to six inches per year. On average, nearby Mount San Jacinto experiences of 25.3 inches of rainfall annually.

High intensity thunderstorms and tropical storms can occur suddenly, however, creating flood hazards. Although the ground may be generally dry at the beginning of a storm, sufficient amounts and intensities of rainfall can saturate the desert surface and substantially reduce percolation, pushing the water farther downstream. Development also in- creases runoff by creating large areas of impervious surface. Furthermore, increased runoff upstream can be a significant contributor to downstream damage.

Areas of potential flooding are generally associated with the Whitewater River and its tributaries, mountain canyons, and their alluvial fans, as well as runoff associated with the Indio Hills drainage (including Edom Hill). Exhibit 26 identifies areas subject to flooding both along the Whitewater River drain- age and along the fan area between I-10 and the Indio Hills (identified as the I- 10 Wash). The 100-year flood zone for the Whitewater River is generally confined to the channel of the river and its tributaries, although at the bottom of Magnesia

Spring Canyon, the 100-year flood limits extend to several of the residential streets in the area. The 500-year flood limits cover a large residential and commercial section of Rancho Mirage and extend across Highway 111.

Although the City’s SOI does not extend north of I-10, there is a potential for substantial flooding in the wash north of I-10. Flooding in this area is generally shallow, between one and three feet deep, but the floodwaters move at relatively high velocities with the potential to do considerable damage. According to maps issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maps, the velocity of the floodwaters in this area varies between five and seven feet per second.

FEMA also reports that most of the streams in the Rancho Mirage area have the potential to carry large amounts of debris. This increases the volume of peak discharges, and when flows reach the valley, the debris is deposited, com- pounding the flooding problem. Debris has the potential to fill or plug structures designed to collect and convey run- off, forcing floodwaters into the adjacent areas. Rapidly moving flows heavily laden with debris are also extremely dangerous.

Increased urbanization of the northern portions of the Coachella Valley can and will result in increased amounts of runoff during large storms. Local agencies have realized that unless adequate flood control measures are implemented, this increased runoff can damage improvements and endanger life.

The CVWD is the primary agency responsible for the management of regional drainage in the vicinity of Rancho Mirage, including rivers, major streams and their tributaries, and areas of significant sheet flooding. CVWD is empowered with broad management functions, including flood control planning and construction of drainage improvements for regional flood control facilities, as well as watershed and watercourse protection related to those facilities.

A small portion of Rancho Mirage lies within the Riverside County Flood Control District boundary, which encompasses Sections 4 and 9 along the border between Rancho Mirage and Cathedral City.

Land Use Planning as a Flood Control Strategy
Proper land use planning is one of the most effective and direct methods of controlling flooding and limiting threats to lives and property. Consistent with other primary goals of the community, land use planning can call for the preservation of natural vegetation in the foothills and mountains that function as natural watersheds for local drainage and groundwater recharge and can affect the volume of stormwater and debris that reaches down- stream facilities.

Land use planning can also limit the exposure of people and improvements to storm hazards and damage. Restrictions on the type and location of structures in the vicinity of major drainages in the community can greatly reduce potential damage. Within the limits of improved and unimproved 100-year floodplains, development should be severely limited and regulated, with the prohibition of the construction of structures for human habitation. To promote sound land use and floodplain development, FEMA provides Flood Insurance Rate Maps for local and regional planners and civil engineers. These maps provide more detailed flood hazard map information, including the boundaries of the 100-year and 500-year flood zones.

The City’s Floodplain Management Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 15.28) provides flood hazard reduction measures including standards of construction, standards for utilities, subdivisions, manufactured homes and recreational vehicles. In flood zones subject to sheet flooding, development approvals should be conditioned to assure protection of improvements from flood damage. Protection measures may include raising the finished floor level above the flood depth projected for the surrounding area and providing protection against scouring. Until such time as flood protection that removes areas from severe threats of flooding is provided, development in these areas should be carefully regulated.

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) implements the federal Clean Water Act and was adopted in 1990. It requires the development, adoption, and implementation of plans and programs for stormwater management, which among other things must effectively prohibit non stormwater discharge into the storm drain and require controls to reduce the discharge of pollutants from stormwater systems to designated Waters of the United States.

Riverside County municipalities and agencies, including the City of Rancho Mirage, Riverside Flood Control and Water Conservation District, and CVWD, have joined to develop and implement the 2001-2006 Stormwater Management Plan as part of NPDES
permitting requirements. This plan was designed to manage and control stormwater runoff to the maximum extent practical.

One of the primary strategies to comply with the provisions of NPDES is the use of onsite stormwater retention or detention basins in any new developments of one acre or larger. These facilities have long been required by the City and may in some instances include artificial wetlands that use a biologically active zone to break down potential pollutants before they can contaminate surface runoff or reach the water table through percolation. These intercept structures will also be important in capturing sand and sediment before it is discharged into drainage facilities. 4-260

7 Safety Element

FLOODING AND HYDROLOGY HAZARDS SAFETY GOALS, POLICIES,

AND PROGRAMS

The principal and direct implementation of the goals, policies, and programs in this section will occur through the use and enforcement of FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Plan (NFIP) guidelines and mitigation measures, NPDES requirements, and the application of CVWD’s regional plans and policies. These measures and their improvements help control and confine the areawide drainage pattern to more discreet and focused routes where it can be better managed. Proper implementation may also reveal locations of new facilities that could complement land use patterns, provide cost effective flood control alternatives, and maximize opportunities for multiple uses, including enhanced groundwater recharge.

The NFIP flood plain maps and guidelines will also set critical parameters for future development along areas subject to areawide flooding. This section will also be implemented through the development guidelines and regulations of the Rancho Mirage zoning, grading, and subdivision ordinances.

GOAL SAFE 2
Protection of lives, property, and essential facilities from flooding and other hydrologic hazards in Rancho Mirage.

POLICY SAFE 2.1
The City shall ensure that updated and effective master drainage plans are implemented in a timely fashion for the near and long- term protection of the community and its residents.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.1A
Proactively participate with the CVWD and the Riverside County Flood Control District in the development and updating of Rancho Mirage Regional master drainage plans, providing land use and other relevant data and information.

POLICY SAFE 2.2
The City shall provide drainage controls and improvements that enhance local conditions and are consistent with and complement the Master Drainage Plans.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.2A
Establish and/or update local regulations and guidelines to direct the management of runoff and provide for local drainage facilities that tie into and maximize the effective use of regional drainage facilities.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.2B
Adopt or update local drainage policies and development standards that reduce the rate of runoff from developed lands, consistent with capacities of public facilities and local and regional management plans, while pro- viding opportunities for open space enhancement and multiple uses.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.2C
Confer and consult with the CVWD and Caltrans to assure adequate all weather crossings/facilities at appropriate locations along Highway 111 and I-10, especially those serving as emergency evacuation/access routes.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.2D
Ensure that emergency evacuation routes are constructed to appropriate all-weather standards.

POLICY SAFE 2.3
The City shall provide direction and guidelines for the development of onsite stormwater retention/detention facilities consistent with local and regional drainage plans and community design
standards.

4-261

8 PROGRAM SAFE 2.3A
Establish and enforce regulations and guidelines for the development and maintenance of project-specific onsite
retention/detention basins that implement the NPDES program, enhance groundwater recharge, complement regional flood control facilities, and ad- dress applicable community design policies.

POLICY SAFE 2.4
The City shall cooperate with FEMA, when necessary, to amend Flood Insurance Rate Maps for areas in the city boundaries and SOI.

POLICY SAFE 2.5
Design major drainage facilities, including debris basins and flood control washes and channels, to balance their enhancement as wildlife habitat and community open space amenities with the functional requirements of these facilities.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.5A
Work closely with the CVWD to assure that design opportunities for enhanced open space and recreation amenities, including habitat enhancement and hiking and equestrian trails, are fully explored and incorporated when designing and constructing channels, debris and detention basins, and other major drainage facilities, to the greatest extent practical.

POLICY SAFE 2.6
The City shall establish Area Drainage Plans or Benefit Assessment Districts for purposes of funding needed drainage improvements, especially where defined tributary areas of the community are concerned.

POLICY SAFE 2.7
Development proposals located in areas that are subject to flooding shall be evaluated to minimize the exposure of life and property to potential flood risks. All development proposed on lands of one acre or larger shall be designed such that all stormwater to the level of a 100-year frequency storm, worst case of the 3, 6, 12, or 24-hour duration, shall be retained onsite.

POLICY SAFE 2.8
Locate new essential public facilities outside of flood hazard zones, including hospitals and health care facilities, emergency shelters, fire stations, emergency command centers, and emergency communications facilities.

Fire Hazards
Purpose

The Fire Hazards section identifies existing fire hazards in or near Rancho Mirage and describes the regulatory environment
established to safely manage these hazards. The intention of the Fire Hazard section is to reinforce the City’s concern and planning for the protection of all Rancho Mirage residents. The section sets forth goals, policies, and programs that will help assure an effective management of fire hazards in Rancho Mirage, and guard the general health, safety, and welfare of the community from possible impacts associated with fire hazards. This section was reviewed to incorporate the advice included in the Office of Planning and Research’s most recent publication of “Fire Hazard Planning, General Plan Technical Advice Series” (May 2015).

Background

Fires can occur in urban environments as well as unpopulated areas that may contain brush or grassland. The central and northern portions of Rancho Mirage are urbanized with few remaining vacant lands. The remaining southern area of Rancho Mirage is in an undeveloped mountain and hillside reserve. These two area types include two fire hazard categories that are of interest to Rancho Mirage and its SOI: vegetation fires and urban or structural fires. With large portions of Rancho Mirage’s boundaries adjoining uninhabited mountain and hillside reserve areas that are rated as high fire threats, the potential for wildfires is high. The urban areas in Rancho Mirage also face common fire hazards.

Wildland Fire Hazards

Large areas of southern California are particularly susceptible to wildfire due to the region’s weather, topography, and native vegetation. The typically mild, wet winters characteristic of the region’s Mediterranean climate result in an annual growth of grass- es and plants that dry out during the hot summer months. This dry vegetation provides fuel for wildfires in the autumn, when the area is intermittently impacted by Santa Ana conditions, including the hot, dry winds that blow across the region in the late fall. These winds often fan and help spread the fires.

The undeveloped areas in Rancho Mirage are characterized by steep topographic gradients that are generally conducive to spreading wildfires. Furthermore, the area’s hot, dry summer and autumn weather is ideal for generating the dry vegetation that fuels most wildfires. Fortunately, the only recorded historical wildfire near the planning area is the Dry Falls fire that occurred in August 1980 to the southeast of Rancho Mirage. The reason that most of the undeveloped areas of Rancho Mirage have not been impacted by wildland fire is that most of the rugged terrain is so steep, rocky, and dry that few plants thrive in the area. As a result, the amount of fuel available for wildland fires is very limited, and the distance between stands of vegetation is too great for fires to spread easily.

In the developed areas of Rancho Mirage, the landscape
vegetation is carefully maintained and watered regularly, creating conditions that limit the possibility for vegetation fires to ignite and spread.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal- Fire) ranks fire hazard of wildland areas of the state using four main criteria: fuels, weather, assets at risk, and level of service. Although Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) are mapped in the Rancho Mirage area, the historical record indicates that the wildland fire hazard in Rancho Mirage is relatively low. CalFire has mapped several fire hazard zones in Rancho Mirage and the SOI, shown in Exhibit 27.

There are no state responsibility areas (SRAs) in the City of Rancho Mirage. The only Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in Local Responsibility Area (LRA) within the City is in the southern end of urban areas. The VHFHSZ consists of part of a single-family residence (70000 Thunderbird Mesa Drive) and undeveloped land. The undeveloped portion is designated as Mountain Reserve per the Land Use Map and will not be developed in the future.

Urban and Structural Fires

To quantify the structural fire risk in a community it is necessary for the local fire departments to evaluate all occupancies based upon their product type, size, construction type, built-in protection (such as internal fire sprinkler systems), and risk (high-occupancy versus low-occupancy) to determine if they can control a fire if it occurs in the types of structures identified. In newer residential areas where construction includes fire-resistant materials and internal fire sprinklers, most structural fires can be confined to the building or property of origin. In older residential areas where the building materials may not be fire-rated and the structures are not fitted with fire sprinklers, there is a higher probability of a structural fire impacting adjacent structures. With the varied type and age of structures in Rancho Mirage, structural fire risk is divided into four categories:
› High Probability/High Consequences (e.g., multi-family dwellings, high-occupancy hotels and resorts, single-family residential homes in the older sections of Rancho Mirage, hazardous materials occupancies, and large shopping centers › Low Probability/High Consequences (e.g., hospitals and other medical facilities, mid-size shopping malls, industrial occupancies, office complexes, and upscale homes in the hills or mountains, in or adjacent to high to very high fire threat areas)
› High Probability/Low Consequences (e.g., older detached single-family dwellings with properly maintained landscaping) › Low Probability/Low Consequences (e.g., newer detached single-family dwellings and small office buildings with properly maintained landscaping).

Most buildings and structures in the City are not in or adjoining a mountainous area or lands covered by forest, brush or grass or other flammable material. Therefore, no mandatory clearance 4-262

10 PROGRAM SAFE 4.2C
Maintain the City’s emergency plan, including an inventory and evaluation of all local and regional emergency resources.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.2D
The City shall consider the development and identification of citywide evacuation routes.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.2E
Require redevelopment in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) to comply with the latest California Building Standards Code (Title 24), including the California Fire Code (Part 9).

Coordinate with the Fire Department on evaluation of rebuilding after a large fire and require additional fire safe measures where necessary.

POLICY SAFE 4.3
The City shall support area-wide mutual aid agreements and communication links with Riverside County authorities and other participating jurisdictions.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.3A
The City shall adhere to the guidelines set forth in the County of Riverside Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.

POLICY SAFE 4.4
The City shall ensure adequate provision of public information to residents and businesses on actions to minimize damage and facilitate recovery from a natural disaster. Prioritize at-risk populations such as those within or near fire hazard zones.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.4A
Coordinate with public agencies and non-profit organizations to promote emergency preparedness and response training such as the Riverside County Community Emergency Response Team
(CERT) program and the Coachella Valley Disaster Preparedness Network (CVDPN) training and resources.

Hazardous and Toxic Materials
Purpose

The Hazardous and Toxic Materials section identifies existing hazardous and toxic material locations in the community and describes the regulatory environment established to safely manage these materials. The intent of the section is to reinforce the City’s concern and planning for the protection of all Rancho Mirage residents and visitors from adverse impacts due to the presence of hazardous and toxic materials. The section sets forth goals, policies, and programs that will help assure an effective response to and protection from the use, storage, or transport of hazardous and toxic materials in Rancho Mirage.

Background

A wide variety of products, chemical and purified chemical compounds, and elements that are considered hazardous or toxic are used in households, commercial business- es, and industrial operations and processes. They range through home and pool related chlorine products, chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, stored fuels and waste oil, chemical solvents and lubricants, and a variety of medical materials. The improper use and management of hazardous materials can pose a significant potential threat to the community and its environment.

Community Hazardous Wastes Risks

There are only a few identified hazardous/toxic material generators in Rancho Mirage. These are associated with
commercial, quasi industrial, and medical operations, which have the potential to be connected to accidental spills, purposeful illegal dumping, air emission, and other uncontrolled discharges into the environment. All are considered “small quantity generators,” and some of those identified in Rancho Mirage include the Eisenhower Medical Center and Desert Orthopedic Center.

Eisenhower Medical Center (EMC) is a “small quantity genera- tor” of hazardous medical wastes associated with various procedures and treatments provided at the facility. Management 4-264

11 Safety Element
and disposal of these materials is primarily the responsibility of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, with additional regulatory responsibility given to the California Office of Health Planning and Development and the Riverside County Department of Health.

EMC has developed and implemented both a Medical Waste
Management Plan and a Hazardous Materials Management
Program, which set forth policies, programs, and procedures for handling, storage, use, and disposal of these materials. Wastes are stored in controlled conditions onsite and removed every 90 days, with storage typically limited to less than 100 gallons each 90 days.

Additionally, there are other sites that have been or should be monitored. These include other waste generating medical clinics and facilities, gasoline service stations, equipment and fuel storage yards, and waste haulers.

The U.S. EPA requires all service stations to retrofit or replace underground storage tanks with double walled construction. All sites in Rancho Mirage have achieved compliance with this rule.

A sanitary landfill was operated on a 57-acre site located in the southwest quarter of Section 11 in the City’s SOI, south of the Southern Pacific Railroad lines. This landfill was operated by the Cathedral City Sanitary District between 1955 and 1967 using the then standard “burn and bury” technique. From 1983 to the end of 1988, the easterly 40 acres of the site were used as a domestic sewage disposal field.

Hazardous Waste Management Plans

Per the Environmental Protection Agency of the state of California (CalEPA), Californians are protected from hazardous waste and materials by a Unified Program that ensures consistency through- out the state in regard to administrative requirements, permits,

1 Certified Unified Program Agencies
2 Riverside County Environmental

inspections and enforcement. CalEPA oversees the program as a whole, and certifies 83 local government agencies known as Certified Unified Program Agencies (CUPA) to implement the hazardous waste and materials standards set by five different state agencies.1

The Riverside County Environmental Health Hazardous Materials Branch is the sole overseeing agency for hazardous waste generation throughout the county. The purpose of the hazardous waste program is to ensure that hazardous wastes will be properly managed and disposed of in order to protect both people and environment.2

The City has the opportunity to coordinate with appropriate county, state, and federal agencies in the identification of hazardous material sites and the active regulation of their timely cleanup.

Management strategies may include establishing and maintaining information on these sites, periodic monitoring facilities, and operations that produce, utilize, or store hazardous materials in Rancho Mirage. Involvement in multi-agency monitoring of illegal dumping in Rancho Mirage, conferring in the regulation of underground storage tanks and septic systems, and regulating the transport of hazardous materials through the community is also appropriate. The City hazardous waste management policies for the General Plan are essentially an extension of the County’s policies and procedures.

Several sources provide information concerning hazardous waste sites in Rancho Mirage. The California Regional Water Quality Control Board and the CVWD maintain information concerning contaminated wells and groundwater. The state and federal environmental protection agencies and the state Department of Health also supply information concerning specific hazardous waste sites and their locations.

3 All information regarding hazardous materials was obtained from the Riverside Department of Environmental Health at
www.rivcoeh.org/hazmat
Hazardous Materials Response

Hazardous and toxic materials pose a threat to public safety if not properly regulated. CalEPA designated the Riverside County Department of Environmental Health Hazardous Materials Branch as the CUPA for Riverside County. The role of the CUPA is to assure consolidation, consistency and coordination of the hazardous materials programs in the county. The CUPA also oversees the two participating agencies (the City of Corona Fire Department and the Riverside County Fire Department) that implement hazardous materials programs in the county.

The Riverside County Department of Environmental Health, Hazardous Materials Branch is responsible for overseeing the six hazardous materials programs in the county. This agency is responsible for inspecting facilities that handle hazardous mate- rials, generate hazardous waste, treat hazardous waste, own/ operate underground storage tanks, own/operate aboveground petroleum storage tanks, or handle other materials subject to the California Accidental Release Program. In addition, the branch maintains an emergency response team that handles hazardous materials and other environmental health emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.3

Hazardous And Toxic Materials Goals, Policies, And
Programs

The City has the responsibility to coordinate with the appropriate agencies in the identification of hazardous material sites and the active regulation of their timely cleanup. This section’s programs of oversight and management between responsible agencies can most efficiently be implemented through regular consultation with the RWQCB and the County Health Department and by updating information on hazardous material sites and monitoring facilities that utilize or produce hazardous materials in Rancho Mirage. The

City should also remain current regarding the monitoring and regulating of underground storage tanks and septic systems and regulating the transport of hazardous materials through Rancho Mirage.

GOAL SAFE 5
The continued safety of Rancho Mirage residents and visitors through the regulation of the manufacture, transport, use, and disposal of toxic and hazardous materials.

POLICY SAFE 5.1
The City shall regulate, to the extent empowered, the delivery, use, and storage of hazardous materials in city limits and the SOI.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.1A
The City shall compile and maintain an inventory of all hazardous waste sites in Rancho Mirage and surrounding jurisdictions.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.1B
The City shall develop a permitting process for the establishment of facilities that manufacture, store, use, or dispose of hazardous and toxic materials in the community or adjacent areas, should it be determined that the need for such a use be realized.

POLICY SAFE 5.2
The City shall require and facilitate the safe and responsible disposal and cleanup of all hazardous/toxic waste and waste sites in Rancho Mirage and the SOI.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.2A
The City shall coordinate with the appropriate state and federal agencies to activate procedures for the cleanup of existing and future hazardous and toxic waste sites. 4-265

12 PROGRAM SAFE 5.2B
The City shall prepare and/or disseminate information and instructive education program materials for residents, including direction on the identification and proper management and disposal of household hazardous waste.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.2C
To the extent empowered, the City shall prohibit the disposal of automotive and household hazardous and toxic materials in landfills.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.2D
The City shall coordinate with Burrtec and other appropriate public and quasi-public agencies to sponsor and develop drop off locations for hazardous or toxic household products for all Rancho Mirage residents.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.2E
The City shall coordinate with appropriate agencies to identify the locations and monitor the use of all underground fuel storage tanks located in city limits with the potential to release hazardous or toxic materials into the environment.

POLICY SAFE 5.3
The City shall coordinate with the Fire and Sheriff’s Department to develop a system for roadway management and for alerting emergency and medical facilities to the impending transport of hazardous and toxic materials.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.3A
The City shall coordinate with appropriate departments and agencies to establish transportation management and contingency emergency procedures and training programs for police, fire, medical, and other organizations that would be involved in an airborne release or ground spill of hazardous and toxic materials or waste.

4 Cal-Adapt
PROGRAM SAFE 5.3B
Follow the response procedures as outlined by the Riverside County Department of Environmental Health in the event of hazardous materials emergency.

POLICY SAFE 5.4
The City shall coordinate with the Regional Water Quality Control Board and the CVWD to monitor and regulate the use and phased removal of subsurface sewage disposal systems.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.4A
Through the subdivision and development review process, the City shall require, to the greatest extent practical, the connection of new development to the sewage collection system of the CVWD.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.4B
The City shall cooperate with the appropriate agencies to help assure that all subsurface sewage disposal systems, upon completion of their use, are properly removed from service.

POLICY SAFE 5.5
The City shall actively oppose any plan or attempt to establish hazardous and toxic waste dumps/landfills or hazardous industrial processes with the potential to adversely affect Rancho Mirage or the SOI.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.5A
The City shall coordinate with CVAG and its member cities to actively organize against and oppose any County, state, federal, or private effort to build or operate hazardous or toxic waste dumps/landfills or to operate hazardous industrial processes, which cannot be mitigated and have the potential to adversely affect Rancho Mirage or the SOI.

Climate Change
Purpose

Climate change is already affecting California cities, as seen by the rise in sea levels, average temperatures, and extreme hot days.

These climate driven changes have many consequences that affect California’s health and prosperity such as the increased frequency of wildfires, pressure on water supplies, shifts in growing seasons, and the increase in populations that will be exposure to intense heat waves.

Rancho Mirage recognizes that understanding its vulnerability and planning for the increased effects of climate change is crucial to the livelihood and safety of its residents. This Climate Change section provides a brief overlook of the leading climate factors that affect Rancho Mirage and its vulnerability to each. The intent of this section is to reinforce the City’s concern for the protection of all Rancho Mirage residents and visitors from the adverse impacts of climate change and to set forth goals, policies, and programs that will help the City to adapt to these changes.

Background

As discussed in the Conservation and Open Space Element, Rancho Mirage is already subject to extreme temperatures and aridity, and the intensity of these conditions will only increase with climate change. The three major climate factors that will impact Rancho Mirage in the future are temperature, precipitation, and wildfire risk.

Temperature
Average Temperature

Overall temperatures are expected to rise throughout this century.

During the next few decades, scenarios project average
temperature to rise between 1 and 2.3°F. Rancho Mirage has already experienced a 2.0°F increase compared to the end of the last century (i.e., 1961-1990). This change in temperature is projected to increase to 3.0°F by 2040. Currently, the average annual temperature for Rancho Mirage is approximately 74°F. The temperature can drop into the low 30's in the winter and can exceed 120°F in the summer.

Extreme Heat Days

The most serious threats to the public health of Californians will stem primarily from the increased frequency of extreme conditions, principally more frequent extreme heat days, and more frequent, intense, and longer heat waves. An extreme heat day is typically defined as a day in April through October where the maximum temperature exceeds the 98th historical percentile of maximum temperatures, based on daily temperature data between 1961 and 1990. A heat wave is defined as five or more consecutive extreme heat days. An increase in heat waves may increase the risk of directly related conditions such as heat stroke and dehydration.

An extreme heat day for Rancho Mirage is when the temperature exceeds 114°F.43 Even though the number of heat days varies from year-to-year, the average is projected to increase in the future (Exhibit 28). As the number of heat days per year steadily increases over time, Rancho Mirage must be prepared to protect its resident’s health and safety.

Precipitation

Changes in precipitation patterns will affect public health primarily through extreme events such as floods, droughts and wildfires. In addition, higher temperatures combined with changes in
precipitation patterns create conditions that are more conducive to the occurrence and spread of infectious diseases. On average, the projections show little change in total annual precipitation in California. Furthermore, precipitation projections do not show a consistent trend during the next century. However, even modest changes would have a significant impact because California ecosystems are conditioned to historical precipitation levels and water resources are nearly fully utilized.

Rancho Mirage has had an average rainfall of 5.74 inches over the last 30 years, which is 85 percent less than the average nationwide, and 77 percent less than the average in California.

Average rainfall in Rancho Mirage is predicted to decline to approximately four inches per year by 2040. This decrease in annual precipitation is not expected to have a significant impact on Rancho Mirage, due to the limited amount of water they already receive. 4-266

13 Safety Element

Wildfire Risk

Decreased precipitation and drought also result in increased frequency and duration of wildfires, another significant risk to public health. Wildfire frequency and intensity is expected to grow as temperatures increase and vegetation dries due to longer dry seasons, especially in mountainous areas. In addition to the as- sociated direct risk of fatalities, wildfires can lead to immediate and long-term adverse public health problems due to exposure to smoke. Smoke from wildfires is a mixture of carbon dioxide, water vapor, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and other organic
chemicals, nitrogen oxides, trace metals, and fine particulate matter from burning trees, plants, and built structures. During wildfires, large populations can be exposed to a complex mixture of pollutant gases and particles, which can have both acute and chronic health impacts. Smoke can irritate the eyes, harm the respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung disease, including asthma. People with existing cardiopulmonary diseases are generally at the greatest risk from smoke inhalation, with age being a complicating risk factor for the exposed population.

Further details regarding wildfire in Rancho Mirage are de- scribed in Fire Hazards above.

Climate Change Goals, Policies, And Programs

The City has the responsibility to coordinate with state, regional, and County agencies to establish and maintain an up-to-date database on climate change conditions in the region, legislation affecting the City’s regulatory responsibilities, and changing technical assessments that refine or re-characterize the climate change impacts affecting the region. The City should also monitor the effectiveness of its adaptation strategies. The City’s development review process must assure that development proposals are thoroughly evaluated with regard to climate change and that comprehensive mitigation measures are developed and implemented. The City will need to take a proactive role to assure the public is safe by informing them about severity of climate change impacts and what resources are available to them to mitigate these impacts.

GOAL SAFE 6
Maintenance of Rancho Mirage as a safe place with a high- quality of life for its residents, businesses, and visitors in the face of climate change.

POLICY SAFE 6.1
The City shall identify and periodically reassess local climate change vulnerabilities.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.1A
Conduct a climate change vulnerability assessment of vulnerable populations, structures, and functions.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.1B
Review the findings of the climate change vulnerability assessment with relevant City departments to ensure that vulnerable community populations, structures, and functions are understood and that appropriate actions are taken to protect these vulnerabilities.

POLICY SAFE 6.2
The City shall develop adaptation measures that address the climate change impacts on Rancho Mirage’s residents, businesses, and visitors.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.2A
Develop a heat response plan that includes identification of cooling centers and promotion of urban heat mitigation strategies.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.2B
Improve wildfire prevention through regulations of new
development, establish and/or maintain cooperative fire agreements, and increase vegetation management efforts to reduce wildfire potential.

4-267

14 PROGRAM SAFE 6.2C
Incorporate newly identified adaptation measures into planning documents, including the Hazard Inventory and Hazard Mitigation Plan, as appropriate.

POLICY SAFE 6.3
The City shall support initiatives, legislation, and actions to respond to climate change and consider potential climate change impacts in planning and decision making processes.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.3A
Coordinate adaptation planning with other planning, including future General Plan/ land use code updates.

POLICY SAFE 6.4
The City shall work with local organizations to raise awareness about climate change impacts.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.4A
Collaborate with community-based organizations (e.g., health care providers, public health advocates, fire prevention organizations) to disseminate public preparedness and emergency response information related to climate change.

4-268

ATTACHMENT 11

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT RESPONSE LETTER

(SEE ATTACHED)

4-269

STATE OF CALIFORNIA - BUSINESS, CONSUMER SERVICES AND HOUSING AGENCY GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

DIVISION OF HOUSING POLICY DEVELOPMENT
2020 W. El Camino Avenue, Suite 500
Sacramento, CA 95833
(916) 263-2911 / FAX (916) 263-7453
www.hcd.ca.gov
November 23, 2021
Jeremy Gleim, Director
Development Services Department
City of Rancho Mirage
69825 Highway 111
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Dear Jeremy Gleim:

RE: Rancho Mirage’s 6th Cycle (2021-2029) Revised Draft Housing Element Thank you for submitting the City of Rancho Mirage’s (City) revised draft housing element received for review on September 24, 2021. Pursuant to Government Code section 65585, subdivision (b), the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) is reporting the results of its review.

The revised draft element addresses some statutory requirements described in HCD’s June 4, 2021 review; however, the following revisions will be necessary to comply with State Housing Element Law (Article 10.6 of the Gov. Code).

1.Affirmatively further(ing) fair housing in accordance with Chapter 15 (commencing with Section 8899.50) of Division 1 of Title 2. The program shall include an assessment of fair housing... (Gov. Code, § 65583, subd. (c)(10)(A).) Promote and affirmatively further fair housing opportunities and promote housing throughout the community or communities for all persons regardless of race, religion, sex, marital status, ancestry, national origin, color, familial status, or disability, and other characteristics... (Gov. Code, § 65583, subd. (c)(5).) The element now includes analysis of various factors related to affirmatively furthering fair housing (AFFH) such as segregation and integration and disparities in access to opportunity. However, the analysis must also address:
•Outreach: The element generally mentions public participation but must describe outreach specific to AFFH, summarize comments and how comments were considered and incorporated into the analysis, contributing factors to fair housing issues and goals and actions. •Local Data and Knowledge: The element should complement federal, state, and regional data with local data and knowledge where appropriate 4-270

Jeremy Gleim, Director

Page 2 ends

to capture emerging trends and issues, including utilizing knowledge from local and regional advocates, public comments, and service providers. • Other Relevant Factors: The element must include other relevant factors that contribute to fair housing issues. For instance, the element can analyze historical land use, zoning and investment practices, presence of redlining, restrictive covenants, neighborhood investment or disinvestment, federal investment such as transportation infrastructure, demographic trends, factors leading to regional patterns and trends or any other information that supplements the reported data and assists in a complete analysis.
• Contributing Factors: Based on the outcomes of a complete analysis, the element should re-evaluate and prioritize contributing factors to fair housing issues as appropriate.
• Goals and Actions: Based on the outcomes of a complete analysis, the element must be revised to add or modify goals and actions. Goals and actions must specifically respond to the analysis and prioritized contributing factors to fair housing issues. Actions must have metrics and milestones as appropriate and address housing mobility enhancement, new housing choices and affordability in high opportunity areas, place- based strategies for community preservation and revitalization and displacement protection. For example, existing programs generally should be revised with metrics and milestones related to AFFH and the City should consider robust actions to promote housing mobility beyond its boundaries and to encourage new housing affordable housing opportunities throughout the community, including within the specific plan areas.

2. An inventory of land suitable and available for residential development, including vacant sites and sites having realistic and demonstrated potential for redevelopment during the planning period to meet the locality’s housing need for a designated income level, and an analysis of the relationship of zoning and public facilities and services to these sites. (Gov. Code, § 65583, subd. (a)(3).)

Parcel Listing and Electronic Sites Inventory: The element was not revised to list parcels by anticipated income categories as noted in the prior review. Further, in the prior review, HCD noted the City must submit an electronic sites inventory with its adopted housing element. As part of the electronic inventory, the City must identify sites by anticipated income category. Please see HCD’s housing element webpage at https://www.hcd.ca.gov/community-development/housing- element/index.shtml#element for a copy of the form and instructions. The City can reach out to HCD at [email protected] for technical assistance.

3. An analysis of potential and actual governmental constraints upon the maintenance, improvement, or development of housing for all income levels… …including land use controls, building codes and their enforcement, site 4-271

Jeremy Gleim, Director

Page 3 ends

improvements, fees and other exactions required of developers, and local processing and permit procedures. (Gov. Code, § 65583, subd. (a)(5).)

Address and, where appropriate and legally possible, remove governmental and nongovernmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing, including housing for all income levels and housing for persons with disabilities… (Gov. Code, § 65583, subd. (c)(3).)

Land Use Controls: As noted in the prior review, the element must evaluate the cumulative impacts of land use controls, specifically unit sizes and lot coverage requirements, on cost and supply of housing and ability to achieve maximum densities. In response, the element now notes affordable housing may have reduced unit sizes and maximum densities can be achieved despite the City’s low lot coverage and height requirements. However, the analysis does not address unit sizes for all housing, including market rate and does not consider various other factors when analyzing allowable densities such as relationships with other development standards or net versus gross areas. Without a complete analysis, unit size requirements for smaller bedrooms and lot coverages for multifamily uses appear to be constraints and the element should add or modify programs as appropriate.

4. The housing element shall contain programs which assist in the development of adequate housing to meet the needs of extremely low-, very low-, low- and moderate-income households. (Gov. Code, § 65583, subd. (c)(2).)

The element now revises various programs to assist in the development of housing for lower-income households. The element also mentions a significant number of farmworkers in the Coachella Valley but then concludes there is no demand for farmworker housing in the City based on what appears to be typical commute times. Providing housing choices for all segments of the community, including special needs and farmworkers, is essential to statutory requirements and affirmatively further fair housing, especially with significant housing needs for farmworkers in the region. As a result, the element should modify policies and programs to include farmworkers, including Policy H6 and Programs H4.C and H6.C.

5. Include a diligent effort by the local government to achieve public participation of all economic segments of the community in the development of the housing element, and the program shall describe this effort. (Gov. Code, § 65583, subd. (c)(9).)

The element notes the revised draft was made available to the public for a two- week period and no comments were received. As noted in the prior review, the City should consider additional efforts to include a broad spectrum of individuals and representative organizations and consider language access barriers. In 4-272

Jeremy Gleim, Director

Page 4 ends

addition, the City must continue to proactively make future revisions available to the public, including any commenters, prior to submitting any revisions to HCD and diligently consider and address comments, including revising the document where appropriate. HCD’s future review will consider the extent to which the revised element documents how the City solicited, considered, and addressed public comments in the element. The City’s consideration of public comments must not be limited by HCD’s findings in this review letter.

The element will meet the statutory requirements of State Housing Element Law once it has been revised and adopted to comply with the above requirements.

The City’s statutory deadline to adopt a housing element was October 15, 2021. For your information, pursuant to Assembly Bill 1398 (Chapter 358, Statutes of 2021), if a local government fails to adopt a compliant housing element within 120 days of this statutory deadline, then any rezoning to accommodate the regional housing needs allocation (RHNA), including for lower-income households, shall be completed no later than one year from the statutory deadline. Otherwise, the local government’s housing element will no longer comply with State Housing Element Law and HCD may revoke its finding of substantial compliance pursuant to Government Code section 65585, subdivision (i).

Several federal, state, and regional funding programs consider housing element compliance as an eligibility or ranking criteria. For example, the CalTrans Senate Bill (SB) 1 Sustainable Communities grant; the Strategic Growth Council and HCD’s Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities programs; and HCD’s Permanent Local Housing Allocation consider housing element compliance and/or annual reporting requirements pursuant to Government Code section 65400. With a compliant housing element, the City will meet housing element requirements for these and other funding sources.

HCD is committed to assisting the City in addressing all statutory requirements of State Housing Element Law and appreciates your efforts in the preparation of your revised draft element. If you have any questions, please contact Gerlinde Bernd at [email protected].

Sincerely,

Paul McDougall
Senior Program Manager
4-273

ATTACHMENT 12

RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION

(SEE ATTACHED)

4-274

4-275

4-276

4-277

4-278

4-279

4-280

4-281

4-282

4-283

4-284

4-285

4-286

4-287

4-288

4-289

4-290

4-291

4-292

4-293

4-294

4-295

4-296

4-297

4-298

4-299

4-300

4-301

4-302

4-303

4-304

4-305

4-306

4-307

4-308

4-309

4-310

4-311

4-312

4-313

4-314

4-315

4-316

4-317

4-318

4-319

4-320

4-321

4-322

4-323

4-324

4-325

4-326

4-327

4-328

4-329

4-330

4-331

4-332

4-333

4-334

4-335

4-336

4-337

4-338

4-339

4-340

4-341

4-342

4-343

4-344

4-345

4-346

4-347

4-348

4-349

4-350

4-351

4-352

4-353

4-354

4-355

4-356

4-357

4-358

4-359

4-360

4-361

4-362

4-363

4-364

4-365

4-366

4-367

4-368

4-369

4-370

4-371

4-372

4-373

4-374

4-375

4-376

4-377

4-378

4-379

4-380

4-381

ATTACHMENT 10

DRAFT SAFETY ELEMENT

(SEE ATTACHED)

4-382

4-383

4-384

4-385

4-386

4-387

4-388

4-389

4-390

4-391

4-392

4-393

4-394

4-395

4-396

4-397

ATTACHMENT 13

PUBLIC COMMENTS

(SEE ATTACHED)

4-398

4-399

4-400

4-401

4-402

4-403

4-404

4-405

4-406

4-407

4-408

4-409

4-410

4-411

4-412

4-413

4-414

4-415

4-416

4-417

4-418

4-419

4-420

4-421

4-422

4-423

4-424

4-425

4-426

4-427

4-428

4-429

4-430

4-431

4-432

4-433

4-434

4-435

4-436

4-437

4-438

4-439

4-440

4-441

4-442

4-443

4-444

4-445

4-446

4-447

4-448

4-449

4-450

4-451

4-452

4-453

4-454

4-455

4-456

4-457

4-458

4-459

4-460

4-461

4-462

4-463

4-464

4-465

4-466

4-467

4-468

4-469

4-470

4-471

4-472

4-473

4-474

4-475

4-476

4-477

4-478

From:Howard Tabackman
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Cc:Ted Weill; Charles Townsend; Steve Downs; Richard W. Kite; Iris Smotrich Subject:Ranch Mirage Housing Element
Date:Wednesday, January 26, 2022 5:35:55 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

We are sending this letter as part of our continued opposition to the draft Housing Element in which the Rancho Mobile Home Park and the Thunder Road area will be designated to have 28 units per acre with the developer having the potential to ask for a 50 % Bonus Density (42 units per acre).

When the City acquired the mobile home park, we were told that the Santa Rosa senior housing development would be expanded in a similar fashion. The Santa Rosa project has a density of 7.2 units per acre. We were told to trust the city’s stewardship of the property, and we did. Now, with different staff and leadership, we are seeing an almost 400% increase in density. This is not in the best interest of the Petersen Ranch neighborhood and the City of Rancho Mirage.

To make matters worse, the Palm to Sands project is proposing 55 units on 4.5 acres and the Thunder Road neighborhood is proposed at 28 units per acre and the bonus. It feels like the city is dropping a low-income density bomb in our backyards. We are not opposed to low-income housing done right, but not at these densities.

In his presentation to the Planning Commission, the Planning Director stated that the Housing Element, without the bonus, was written to include 2,322 units when only 1,741 is being required by the State of California. This surplus of 581 units is excessive. Removing the Rancho Mirage Mobile Home Park and the Thunder Road area will not adversely affect the requirements of the State. In fact, the entire density can be transferred to the 50 acres the city owns in section 30 and/or the high school site/and ot the 12 vacant acres opposite the Motel 6 on Highway 111. Placing it in the Petersen Ranch neighborhood is not necessary.

Omitted from the Planning Director’s presentation was an explanation of SB 166 that clearly states, “The law also prohibits the city from reducing, requiring, or permitting the reduction of the residential density to a lower density… without making findings.” This means that there must be findings, the density will need to be replaced elsewhere, and the Housing Element changed, the General Plan amended, and the zoning changed… again. Why go through this when we can avoid this now by eliminating the overlay zone from the Rancho Mobile Home Park and the Thunder Road neighborhoods.

We do not believe that the city has looked carefully at other options for meeting the state’s housing requirements. There are other options that must be addressed. As you understand, once this change is in writing and adopted, it is difficult to change. The overlay designation becomes right of zone.

Please review the section of the study that refers to “Public Participation.” You will note that there was not public participation. The attendees at the presentations were representatives from housing groups and housing developers. Although the city 4-479

Caution: This message was sent from outside Choura Events. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the source of this email and know the content is safe.
satisfied the legal requirements to notice the public, it was ineffective. The public has now become aware of the change in the Housing Element and is commenting. Listen to them. Send the Housing Element back to staff. Have them work with the public on alternatives and let’s get this right. We are here to work with you. There is no urgency to act on this now. Thank you.

Howard Tabackman & Eric Peterson
10 Ridgeline Way
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
310-606-1491

4-480

From:Leonard Steinberg
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Opposition to Peterson Road and Thunder Road increased density.

Date:Friday, January 28, 2022 10:34:45 PM
Attachments:RM Letter - Steinberg.pdf
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. 4-481

4-482

4-483

4-484

4-485

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:[email protected]
Sent:Saturday, January 29, 2022 11:09 AM
To:Ted Weill; Iris Smotrich; Charles Townsend; Steve Downs; Richard W. Kite Cc:Isaiah Hagerman, CPA; Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Rancho Mirage Housing Element - SB 166 - IMPORTANT Attachments:Rancho Mirage Housing Element SB 16620220129_10573931.pdf Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

I prefer not to trouble you with this, but it is important to get it right.

I have attached SB 166 for your reference. This was omitted from the staff report and the staff presentation to the Planning Commission. It is important to understand that once the Housing Element is put in place as part of the city’s General Plan, it is difficult to change. SB 166 states “… the law prohibits a city…from reducing … or permitting the reduction… unless the city… makes written findings supported by substantial evidence…” The planning Commission was not given this information. I believe this omission affected their decision.

My point is this: When a parcel is designated as high density, the housing element of the General Plan changed, and the zoning changed, it is very hard to change it back. Why go to the cost and trouble to it and then undo it, if you have other alternatives? We need time to discuss the alternatives.

I would like to have the council consider leaving the density of the Rancho Springs Mobile Home Park and Thunder Road properties at 9 units per acre and remove the overlay zone.

Feel free to call me at 760‐567‐2054 to discuss this further. 4-486

4-487

4-488

4-489

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:[email protected]
Sent:Saturday, January 29, 2022 11:41 AM
To:Ted Weill; Iris Smotrich; Richard W. Kite; Steve Downs; Charles Townsend Cc:Isaiah Hagerman, CPA; Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Rancho Mirage Housing Element - STAFF REPORT
Attachments:RAncho Mirage Housing Element - STAFF Report20220129_11160359.pdf Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

I know that you received this as part of your 600 plus page packet for the February 3rd meeting. Please forgive me for being redundant.

I think it is important to note:

 There is no reference to SB 166 which will make it difficult to change the Housing Element and reduce density once density is attached to any parcel. This was omitted from the presentation staff made to the Planning Commission and may have affected their decision.
 Please review the section of the report to see who attended the Public Outreach sessions. Only housing agency advocates and developers attended. No public participation occurred. Why? Because there was no notice to adjacent property owners.

Although you are not required to notify, and staff may have conformed to the minimum requirements, the process lacked transparency. You are now hearing from the public.

Take time to listen to us and instruct staff to work with the neighborhoods affected.

Remove the overlay zone.
 Please review the section called : Next Steps.” You will find that it includes changing zoning, adopting and overlay zone which will allow, by right, entitlement to 28 units per acre and potentially allow up to a 50% bonus…42 units per acre.  “Next Steps” also outline the time frames to: Establish a Development Strategy, develop an incentive program, secure entitlements, construction and occupancy of City Owned Site D, the former Rancho Mobile Home Park.

Staff has told us that there are no plans for this property, but the Next Steps tell a different story. Once the plan is adopted, it will exist, and the densities will be by right of zone. They will be very difficult to change, if indeed you want to change them.

4-490

2 I am trying to get this right and want to work with staff to make that happen. I think there are other alternatives, but we need time to work with staff to sort things out. Please send this back to staff and give us an opportunity to develop something that meets the state requirements and ours.

Thank you.

4-491

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:[email protected]
Sent:Saturday, January 29, 2022 5:42 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:FW: Rancho Mirage Housing Element - Housing Quantities Attachments:Rancho Mirage Housing Element - Housing Quantities20220129_11474365.pdf Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

For your records

From: [email protected]
Sent: Saturday, January 29, 2022 12:07 PM
To: '[email protected]' ; '[email protected]' ; '[email protected]' ;
'[email protected]' ; '[email protected]'

Cc: '[email protected]'
Subject: Rancho Mirage Housing Element ‐ Housing Quantities

I have attached a slide from the presentation that was made to the Planning Commission. It Shows:

 A requirement from the State of California of 1,741 housing units  A Housing Element as proposed of 2,322 units
 A surplus of 581 units

The Rancho Mobile Home Park, with the Overlay Zone of 28 units per acre would supply 309 units. If you remove the overlay from the Ranch Mobile Home Park, the allowed density would be 9 units per acre or 110 units. This would reduce the total number of units by 199 resulting in a net number of units of 2,123. This still meets the States requirements. The same holds true for the Thunder Road area. This doesn’t include the potential to add units through the HY111 Specific Plan, adding density to the 20 acres near the high school, allocation additional acreage to the city owned site B in Section 30 or a host of other alternatives.

My point is this. The City Council can change the Draft Housing Element. Making changes now is easy. Changing it later will be hard and near impossible. There is no rush to approve this.

Now is the time to do this right. Please send this back to staff and have them work with us on making changes that will meet the State’s requirements. Thank you. 4-497

4-498

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:[email protected]
Sent:Saturday, January 29, 2022 5:42 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:FW: Housing in Coachella
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

For your records.

From: [email protected]
Sent: Saturday, January 29, 2022 12:15 PM
To: '[email protected]' ; '[email protected]' ; '[email protected]' ;
'[email protected]' ; '[email protected]'

Cc: '[email protected]'
Subject: FW: Housing in Coachella

In case you missed this… from KESQ last evening regarding housing in Coachella. To get the density the Housing Element is proposing, you will need to go vertical. Can you imagine this in the Thunder Road area or in the Rancho Mobile Home Park? Just click on the link in blue below and ask yourself…”Is this the right thing to do in these areas? I think not.

Local leaders tour new Coachella affordable apartments, move‐in expected by April ‐ KESQ

One more thing to think about…

Palms to Sands, a development that we are opposed to, is at a density of 12.22 units per acre. I know that there are differences between the projects but the housing element may help his argument with the city. Let’s talk.
4-499

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:jack swenson
Sent:Sunday, January 30, 2022 9:01 AM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Cc:Ted Weill; Charles Townsend; Steve Downs; Richard W. Kite; Iris Smotrich Subject:Rancho Mirage housing Element
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

As I have stated in past emails I am opposed to the proposal to increase the density of both the Thunder Road and Rancho Mobile Home Park.

After discussing with many neighbors in the area, it has come to my attention that notification has not been made to those within the 500 foot range which has been the past process for the City. I also understand that because this is a citywide project, a notice in the paper is technically legal.

Although legal, it seems a way of avoiding full disclosure which is not in the spirit of what I have come to know the leadership of Rancho Mirage to stand for.

My wife and I have owned a home in Rancho Mirage for 38 years and on Peterson Road since 2005. During that time, I believe the City has been the best managed City in the Valley.

I ask you to continue this agenda item until all people have been notified and have had adequate time to provide input and discuss with staff.

Thank You for your consideration.

Jack Swenson
38590 Peterson Rd Rancho Mirage

4-500

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Kay Williams
Sent:Monday, January 31, 2022 12:53 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Cc:Ted Weill; Charles Townsend; Steve Downs; Richard W. Kite; Iris Smotrich Subject:Rancho Mirage Housing Element
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Council Members:

I am writing to you to express my agreement with many of my neighbors regarding the Rancho Mirage Housing Element that is to be discussed on February 3, 2022. I am in opposition to the draft Housing Element in which the Rancho Mobile Home Park and the Thunder Road area will be designated to have 28 units per acre with the developer having the potential to ask for a 50% Bonus Density ( 42 units per acre).

Our neighborhood was led to believe, when the city acquired the mobile home park, that the Santa Rosa senior housing development would be expanded in a way like it currently is. That is a project with a density of 7.2 units per acre. I trusted the city's stewardship. Now, with different staff and leadership, I am seeing an almost 400% increase in density. I do not want to see this for our Peterson Ranch neighborhood and the City of Rancho Mirage.

I grew up in the Cathedral City cove when my family moved here in 1964. My family would probably be considered low income at that time if there were such a thing. I delivered the Desert Sun in the afternoon with my mother and brother throughout this area from the ages of 3‐13. We delivered 300+ papers every day and my mother made sure that we put it on the doorstep of each home, apartment, and mobile home. I know these roads well and the friendly neighbors that would greet us as we had to go door to door to collect the monthly fees for the paper. This is one of the reasons that my husband and I built our home here 21 years ago.

I am not opposed to low income housing. I'm opposed to the "amount" of units that could be put within these areas. Our mail and packages have been taken many times and this has occurred for our neighbors, too. (Some homes have been broken into.) From viewing our camera, I can see that the people taking the mail appear to be anyone. The problem with MORE individuals in the neighborhood means that MORE people are around to take advantage of NOT KNOWING whether they live in the area or not. I would like to have the density be at an acceptable level. This "overlay" that is the Housing Element increases the population for the area too much. The roads, and corners at the highway, will need to be widened in order to adjust for the extra traffic.

I joined in through ZOOM on the Planning Commission meeting. The Planning Director did not advise the commission members of all the facts. It was a neighbor who had diligently read all the fine print to point out the "bonus" density that could occur. Also, once this occurs, the state has more rights over the development than the actual city.

I believe there is still time to work on this and to look at other sites that would be more beneficial to actual families. As you are very much aware, the "general public" within 500 feet WERE NOT informed properly in regards to this decision. I have been told that a public notice was put into The Desert Sun. Since no one hardly reads The Desert Sun anymore in a true "paper" format, I would be surprised if anyone saw the notice. Luckily, we have neighbors who care about our area and communicate with each other.

4-501

2 The City council did the right thing when deciding on the "bike" route through the Coachella Valley cities. I hope that all of you can listen to the citizens, delay any voting until becoming properly informed, and make a decision that is beneficial to the residents who have elected you.

Sincerely,
Kay Williams
38600 Peterson Road
Rancho Mirage, CA. 92270
760‐413‐5180
4-502

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:LIS VVS1
Sent:Monday, January 31, 2022 2:22 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:NO ADEQUATE NOTICE - NO TRANSPARENCY
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear City Council Members,

The discussion on the parcels proposed for housing element high densities should be continued to future meetings as property owners living within 500 feet of the parcels were not given appropriate notice. This lack of transparency affects all of the residents and will not be tolerated by the citizens of Rancho Mirage. Publishing a notice in the newspaper that few people read is not adequate. What happened to citizens receiving notification in the mail to give us time to plan input and discussion? It appears that the City is not sending out notification so that they can take action behind the backs of the citizens and that is NOT transparent.

Do the right thing and continue the discussion on proposed housing element high densities to later meetings so that the citizens of this community can provide input.

Thank you.

Lisa McFadden
38900 Kelley Lane
Rancho Mirage, CA. 92270
760-992-6500

“When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” Maya Angelou

4-503

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:[email protected]
Sent:Monday, January 31, 2022 1:16 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Cc:Ted Weill; Charles Townsend; Steve Downs; Richard W. Kite; Iris Smotrich Subject:Rancho Mirage Housing Element
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Rancho Mirage Council Members,

It has come to my attention that you will be discussing the Rancho Mirage Housing Element and overlay as it pertains to my neighborhood known as Peterson Ranch. My wife and I completed the building of our home in 2001. We watched the property for about 10 years before we were able to afford the land and build. I was born and raised in Palm Springs, but I have always enjoyed what Rancho Mirage has to offer. I have especially been encouraged by the city council over the years. Our city council seems to listen to the residents and take to heart their concerns when expressed.

You are now having to make a decision about the density of low income housing and this affects my neighborhood. I am not opposed to low income housing since it is very close to my home on basically three sides: to the northwest, west, and south. I do have concerns about the density of the proposal before you. In order to fit the number of units that are possible in my area, the buildings would need to be 2-3 stories high. This is unreasonable for the area. Roads would need to be widened with sidewalks put in. It would definitely interrupt the flow of traffic on HWY 111, even with the lights synchronized. I can only imagine the children or young adults who would try to cross the busy intersections because they would get impatient for the lights to change.

Please listen to the neighbors and delay your decision. Community members WERE NOT notified adequately like they should have been. This would have a HUGE IMPACT on the "feel" of our neighborhood. We already have many residents of young or inexperienced age that race down the street or are in a hurry to get to their jobs or other appointments. Adding so many others in such a small space can only lead to disaster.

Please be transparent in your decision making and what is set before you. My wife and I will be listening/watching via zoom. I've always been proud to support you through my voting, and I hope to do so in the future.

Please know that I am OPPOSED to this "overlay" as it currently stands.

Sincerely,

Ronald Williams
38600 Peterson Road
Rancho Mirage, CA. 92270
760-409-8482
4-504

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:[email protected]
Sent:Tuesday, February 1, 2022 10:09 AM
To:Ted Weill; Iris Smotrich; Richard W. Kite; Charles Townsend; Steve Downs Cc:Isaiah Hagerman, CPA; Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:RM Housing Element SB 330
Attachments:RM Housing Element SB 330 20220201_10070751.pdf Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Here is a copy of a portion of the minutes in which Planning Commissioner Grey aske the Planning Director about changing the designation. As you can see, the Director emphasized that the city has discretion…

No consider SB 166 (sent earlier) that says that the designation can’t be undone unless there are significant findings and now SB 330 that tells you the same but applies a $10,000 per unit fine for each unit reduced.

My point is this…why go to the trouble to add the overlay zone and then go through all the trouble to undo it. Once you approve this, it will be in black and white. It will be by right of zone.

I have also included the list of attendees to the workshops for your reference…not much of a public process.

Please have your attorney explain this to you. It’s complicated and , although the negations with the state have been strenuous, applying the overlay zone to this parcel is not the answer.

This is your opportunity to do this right. Send this back to staff and have them work with us. 4-505

4-506

4-507

4-508

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:[email protected]
Sent:Tuesday, February 1, 2022 2:06 PM
To:Ted Weill; Iris Smotrich; Richard W. Kite; Steve Downs; Charles Townsend Cc:Isaiah Hagerman, CPA; Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:RM Housing Element State Letter - Public Partricipation Attachments:RM Housing State Letter Public Participation20220201_13592321.pdf Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Completed
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Here is a letter (you packet pp463‐466) from the State to the city. I have highlighted the references to public participation.

This is another reason that you should delay action on this item and notice property owners within 500 feet of the parcels. You need input. We are requesting to have an opportunity to discuss this with you. We need to have a two way dialogue. Please respond. Thank you. 4-510

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:[email protected]
Sent:Tuesday, February 1, 2022 4:30 PM
To:'[email protected]' ; '[email protected]' ; '[email protected]' ;
'[email protected]' ; '[email protected]' ; Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Rancho Mirage Housing Element
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

February 1, 2022

Honorable Mayor Ted Weill

Council members:

Richard Kite
Steve Downs
Iris Smotrich
Charles Townsend

Dear Madam and Sirs:

My name is Roger D. Sack. I am a full time Ranch Mirage resident for the past 22 years.

I have learned that the City Council will be responding to State of California demands for rezoning of certain parcels of land in the City to allow very substantial density of 28 units per acre for low‐income housing.

While I am sympathetic to the goal of increasing available housing for low‐income families, I do think this extraordinary density requires a careful selection of suitable sites.

For example, I understand the Planning Commission, in response to the Staff, has recommended the mobile home park parcel accessible by Peterson Road. I believe this parcel is highly inappropriate for this new density. The streets are wholly insufficient to support the additional traffic that would ensue.

The Planning Commission has neglected to consider other more useful properties such as the 50 acres owned by the City near the Home Depot. Another site should be the 40 acres Adjacent to Rancho Mirage High School and perhaps the 12 acres on Hwy 111 across from the Motel 6.

These three properties would easily satisfy the State’s requirements.

Further, I ask that you defer a decision to a later date to allow for due notice to the interested property owners in the selected areas. Surely, they should have chance to 4-515

2 express their concerns. As I understand it, the only notice so far was published in the Desert Sun, which likely seen by few of our citizens.

I urge you to remove the Peterson Road properties from the “Housing Element” plan.

As to Thunder Road, after examining the property yesterday, it seems to me the existing multifamily buildings are a “head start” for the additional zoning recommended, so long as any construction would be single story.

Respectfully,

Roger D. Sack
70330 Pecos Road in Rancho Mirage.

4-516

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Ted Weill
Sent:Wednesday, February 2, 2022 1:53 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Fwd: Housing project on Peterson and Thunder Rd Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
FYI
Sent from my iPhone

Ted Weill
Mayor
Phone: 760-324-4511 Ext. 202
E-mail: [email protected]
69-825 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, California, 92270
www.RanchoMirageCa.gov

Rancho Mirage City Hall:

Open Monday through Thursday
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Closed daily from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m.

Closed to the public on Fridays
ranchomirageca.gov

Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory:
"Library to Go" Services Only
Tuesday – Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
ranchomiragelibrary.org

TRANSPARENCY NOTICE
Some or all of the content of this e‐mail and its attachments may be subject to disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act (Government Code section 6250, et seq.) Begin forwarded message:

From: dlewis92270
Date: February 2, 2022 at 1:32:21 PM PST
To: Iris Smotrich , Ted Weill , Steve Downs
, [email protected], "Richard W. Kite"

Subject: Housing project on Peterson and Thunder Rd

4-517

2 CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi All,
Concerned citizen here. I understand that you are all considering a high density housing project for our neighborhood and that this is coming up tomorrow Feb 3 at 1 pm. I'm very concerned there hasn't been enough study of the effect of a large project on our small neighborhood and I'm also concerned that this is the first I've heard about it. I object to the speed of this consideration. Please bring this up at the meeting tomorrow.

Sincerely,
Dominic Lewis

Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone

4-518

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Lynn Fontana
Sent:Wednesday, February 2, 2022 11:29 AM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Rancho Mirage housing element-city council meeting.

Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Kristie,

I wish to go on record as opposing the Draft Housing Element and to request that the City Council delay the adoption of this plan. I feel that, in this era of transparency, that the city should notify all property owners within 500 feet of the subject properties and properly solicit public input. Avoid letting this become another COD debacle.

Although I will be attending by Zoom, I will not be speaking. I wish to give my three minutes to Mike Fontana

Lynn Fontana
[email protected]
4-519

From:Raquel Bitton
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC; [email protected]
Subject:Raquel And Gerald Prolman, Peterson Road
Date:Wednesday, February 2, 2022 11:27:14 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Sir or Madam,
We are the Prolmans, Raquel and Gerald Prolman residing at:
38787 and 38775 Peterson Road in Rancho Mirage , Ca 92270.

This letter is to let you know that we are opposed to the current proposal for High density zoning to the Peterson Road and Thunderbird Road Parcels.

Further, we request that City Council continue this item and send it back to the Planning Department and give notice to all Property Owners within 500 feet of any properties proposed for High Density Zoning.

Warmly,
Gerald and Raquel B Prolman
4-520

From:Ted Weill
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Fwd: Housing project on Peterson and Thunder Rd Date:Wednesday, February 2, 2022 3:33:21 PM
Attachments:City Seal transparent(2) efef6a3d-46a2-4ae5-8bcb-b3298f02f64d.png FYI
Sent from my iPhone

Ted Weill
Mayor
Phone: 760-324-4511 Ext. 202
E-mail: [email protected]
69-825 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, California, 92270
www.RanchoMirageCa.gov

Rancho Mirage City Hall:

Open Monday through Thursday
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Closed daily from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m.

Closed to the public on Fridays
ranchomirageca.gov

Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory:
"Library to Go" Services Only
Tuesday – Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
ranchomiragelibrary.org

TRANSPARENCY NOTICE
Some or all of the content of this e-mail and its attachments may be subject to disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act (Government Code section 6250, et seq.) Begin forwarded message:

From: Elaine
Date: February 2, 2022 at 3:31:42 PM PST
To: Iris Smotrich , Ted Weill
, Steve Downs ,
[email protected], "Richard W. Kite"
Cc: Elaine
Subject: Re: Housing project on Peterson and Thunder Rd Reply-To: Elaine
4-521

CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

To all above-addressed,
I became aware today about the meeting tomorrow with the intention of the city to build a high density housing project in my neighborhood.

Since this is the first time I've heard about it, I am of the opinion that there hasn't been enough study of the impact that this would have on this tiny neighborhood. The traffic would be horrendous. I do object to this decision without making all of us in the neighborhood aware of what is being planned so that we can make our objections at said meeting. I would like to be informed of what is going on that is going to affect "my" neighborhood.

Thank you,
Elaine Childs
70100 Mirage Cove Drive, No. 20
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
4-522

From:Michael Silver
To:Kristie Ramos CMC
Subject:Fwd: notice to residents
Date:Wednesday, February 2, 2022 6 03:54 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe As a member of the Silver Family Trust ——owners of two duplex units on View Road I DEMAND YOU INCLUDE COMMUNITY IMPUT WHY ARE YOU ALLOOWING FOR LOW INCOME PROPERTY BELOW 15 MILLION DOLLAR HOUSES AND CREATE A SLUM AREA WHY DO WE NEED MORE DENSITY…THE CITY DOWNZONED THESE LOTS AND NO ONE IN THE CITY HAS ALLOWED ANYONE TO BUILD…SO NOW FOR OTHER INTEREST YOU WILL UPZONE THE LOTS… NOT IF WE HAVE ANYTHING TO SAY ABOUT THIS BUILD $500K TO $600K CONDOS THAT CONFORM TO THE CURRENT ZONING AND WONT DESTROY THE NEIGHBORHOOD… Michael Silver 760 880-7150
Begin forwarded message:

From: msilvermft
Date: February 2, 2022 at 5:56:49 PM PST
To: Michael Silver
Sent from my Galaxy
4-523

4-524

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Tom Sudinsky
Sent:Wednesday, February 2, 2022 4:18 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Opposition to Amend the Housing and Safety Element Attachments:Council Letter 1-20-22.docx.pdf
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

My name is Tom Sudinsky and I agree with the attached letter.

I have resided in Rancho Mirage for nearly 16 years. I am currently developing a property at 38850 Kelley Lane and my personal residence at 38480 Peterson Road. Given the impact of including the former mobile home park and Thunder Rd. properties in the update to the Housing and Safety Element of the City Plan, enough time was not given for community outreach, input and consideration of alternate locations.

Low income and affordable housing is a necessity for our community but squeezing hundreds of units in the small strip of land that runs between the wash and the mountain is far from ideal.

Please forward my concerns to the Mayor and City Council.

Sincerely,

Tom Sudinsky
38480 Peterson Rd.

Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
4-525

Honorable Mayor Ted Weill 1-20-22
Council Members:

Steve Downs
Richard Kite
Iris Smotrich
Charles Townsend

Dear Madam and Sirs:

Please consider the following for the Housing Element. I oppose including the Thunder Road parcels (above the Shell station at Hwy 111 and Peterson Road) and the former mobile home park on Peterson Road. This letter includes information the Planning Department and Planning Commission did not have and was not included in the Planning Commission Hearing on January 13, 2022.

The below states reasons and facts why three parcels noted should be in Housing Element overlay. Rancho Mirage quota (1,741 units) for low-income housing can easily be met by the three parcels proposed, yielding over 2,600 units.

Low-income housing is not the objection. It is the locations with densities that are opposed.
1) The problems, negative impacts and objections to the Palms and Sands proposed 55 homes on 4 ½ acres carry over to Thunder Road and Peterson Road parcels. The negative impacts of high -density development in a low-density residential neighborhood include, decisions of existing property owners and prospective ones to invest and develop. To wit, the one-acre parcel on East side of Palms and Sands property was in escrow. The buyer cancelled escrow upon learning that Palms and Sands 55 homes were proposed next door.

There are 19 acres in multiple parcels for sale North of Mirage Cove 4-526

along Peterson Road that would be negatively impacted by the MHP at 28 units/ac.

2) The CVWD has a prohibition on building homes within 300’ of the flood channels unless the channel is “lined” along the subject property.

The channel behind the Peterson Road mobile home property is only partially lined. Therefore, housing prohibited in the first 300’ along the channel. This property could be used for a 5-acre park bordering the Butler Abrams Trail. This property was intended for Senior housing prior to Redevelopment Agencies being closed down by the State. The remaining 7-acres could be Senior housing like Santa Rosa Villas on the South side, providing approximately 50 homes. Further, if the City and CVWD were to approve housing within the 300’ prohibition zone, would they be subject to inverse condemnation lawsuits by owners of parcels denied development within the 300’ zone?
Summary
Prior to the January 13, 2022 Planning Commission Hearing, notice was not sent to the property owners within 500’ of the Planning Department Housing Element proposed parcels. With adequate time for residents’ comments, the overwhelming consensus is that Peterson Road MHP and Thunder Road parcels should not be changed to ultra-high-density (28 units or more) and not be included in the “Housing Element” overlay.

13 acres Hwy 111
This parcel across from Motel 6 is surrounded on 3 sides by mountains and HWY 111 frontage on 4th side. 28 units per acre yields 364 units.

Buildings at rear along mountain could be 3 story. Hwy 111 is a major road and has bus transportation within walking distance of parcel. 4-527

This parcel was approved several years ago for a boutique hotel, rental condos and commercial office space. The applicant tried unsuccessfully to find a buyer/hotel developer. The property is for sale now. A hotel and rental condos on the parcel are not financially feasible and are not market attractive for such development. The list price is $8,000,000.00. 364 units are approximately $22,000/unit, a reasonable land cost for low-income housing. The parcel is also within walking distance of large employer (casino at Date Palm and Hwy 111) and Cathedral City Civic Center.

The acreage along Hwy 111, just East of City Hall and across from Atrium/Palms Café is more attractive for a boutique hotel and rental condos.

It satisfies Rancho Mirage’s vision for a hotel and mixed-use development.

40 acres adjacent to Rancho Mirage High School

40 acres at 28 units per acre yields 1,120 units. The proposed plan is to have only 9 units per acre. Benefits for low -income, high-density housing:
1) Major road/thoroughfare that connects to Ramon and Dinah Shore for East/West travel.
2) Large employment base at Mission Hills Country Club, Westin Hotel , Westin Timeshare Villas and Del Webb development.
3) Rancho Mirage High School could be used for evening classes, G.E.D. education and recreation. High school age children could walk to school.

City owned land 50 acres

This land is between the Rancho Mirage Dog Park and Home Depot Center. Using only 40 acres with 28 units per acre, yields 1,120 units. 10+ acres could be open space, and/or public park.

4-528

Benefits
1) Dinah Shore Drive frontage – major arterial
2) Walking distance to stores and restaurants
3) Walking distance to a large, concentrated employment base. Low - income residents need housing and employment opportunities. The latter is critical to moving up the economic scale and transitioning to non-subsidized housing. This parcel could be a “master-planned community” and a model for low-income housing.

The City Council backed by a large majority of residents stopped CV Link from going through Rancho Mirage and prohibited short-term rentals. The negative impacts on the city and neighborhoods would have been disastrous.

We implore the Council to use the same reasoning and protect the two neighborhoods of Peterson Road/Mirage Cove and Thunder Road.

CC: Isaiah Hagerman, City Manager
Jeremy Gleim, Development Director

4-529

From:Dominic Lewis
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Housing development
Date:Thursday, February 3, 2022 7:59:48 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi
I would like to voice my opinion on the proposed housing development on Peterson and Thunder Road. I don't think enough study has gone into this and the residents have not been given proper notice. Please expect some heavy push back.

Sincerely
Dominic Lewis
Small Mountain condos
4-530

From:Jane Pressman
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Proposed re-zoning in Rancho Mirage
Date:Thursday, February 3, 2022 9:58:20 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

I’m writing in strong opposition to the proposed new zoning in the Thunder Road and Santa Rosas area. The current zoning density in this area CAN support moderate and low income housing in a sustainable way. New zoning is unsustainable and unacceptable.

Thank you ,
Jane
4-531

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Kay Williams
Sent:Wednesday, February 2, 2022 12:31 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Seeding of Speaking Time
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Completed
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Good Afternoon!

My name is Kay Williams and I will be attending the City Council meeting this Thursday, February 3rd, at 1:00. I wish to seed my speaking time to Mr. Michael Fontana as he is sharing my thoughts as well as his.

If you have any questions, you may reach me at this email or via text at 760‐413‐5180.

Thank you,
Kay Williams
38600 Peterson Road
Rancho MIrage, CA. 92270
4-532

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Lisa McFadden
Sent:Wednesday, February 2, 2022 11:12 AM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Cc:[email protected]
Subject:City Council Meeting - February 3, 2022
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Completed
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Good Morning,

Please allow Mike Fontana of Rancho Mirage, CA. to use my 3 minutes for public comments at the City Council Meeting on Thursday, February 3, 2022.

Thank you very much.

LISA McFADDEN
38900 Kelley Lane
Rancho Mirage, CA. 92270
760‐992‐6500

LISA McFADDEN
Chair, Counseling Department
College of the Desert
43500 Monterey Avenue
Palm Desert, CA. 92260
[email protected]
760-776-7499

“When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” Maya Angelou

“If you think you can or if you think you can’t, you’re right.” Henry Ford

4-533

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:[email protected]
Sent:Wednesday, February 2, 2022 12:34 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:City Council Meeting
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Completed
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Ronald Williams and I plan on being in attendance at the City Council meeting this Thursday, February 3rd, at 1:00. Mr. Michael Fontana will be speaking on my behalf and I request that my time be seeding to him. Thank you so very much!

Sincerely,

Mr. Ronald Williams
38600 Peterson Road
Rancho Mirage, CA. 92270
4-534

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Carol Engle
Sent:Thursday, February 3, 2022 11:54 AM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Re-Zoning
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi Kristie,

I'm a new resident of Rancho Mirage. I'm opposed to re‐zoning without community input. Can you tell me exactly where the proposed re‐zoning is? I just moved to Country Club Estates at Bob Hope and Country Club.

I'm saying "NO" to City Council.

Thank you,

Carol Engle
925.360.7002
4-535

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Stephen Hall
Sent:Thursday, February 3, 2022 3:50 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Proposed Zoning Ordinance in Rancho Mirage
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

I am concerned about the City increasing the density per acre in Rancho Mirage. Please vote NO to City Council regarding an increase to the density per acre.

Thank you,
Stephen Hall
Rancho Mirage Citizen

Sent from Mail for Windows

4-536

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Thomas Gass
Sent:Thursday, February 3, 2022 3:24 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Opposed to rezoning the Thunder Road/Santa Rosa area Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Count me in as one who would be opposed to rezoning for high density low income/middle income rental housing in this area. I believe this definitely needs to be discussed in more detail and put out for vote.

Thomas J Gass
14 Calle Vega
Rancho Mirage, CA

Sent from my iPhone
4-537

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:[email protected]
Sent:Thursday, February 3, 2022 11:32 AM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:OPPOSED to Re-Zoning on every level
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Community VOTE and CLEAR details required to change anything in our residential community.

Please, we need to be involved and notified prior to changes in our ordinances.

Thank you

Verlinda “Lin” Richardson
72265 Rodeo Way
Rancho Mirage, Ca.

4-538

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:joseph regina
Sent:Friday, February 4, 2022 7:36 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Zoning on the sly
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Shame on you
No No and No

Sent from my iPhone
4-539

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Marilyn Arcoli arcaroli
Sent:Sunday, February 6, 2022 3:53 PM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:Low income rentals
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

The city is encouraging more crime, with high density low cost rentals. Why are you not offering to build low cost homes for sale which brings pride of ownership. Are the members of the city council on board with this plan. I doubt it very much

Sent from my iPad
4-540

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Joe
Sent:Monday, February 7, 2022 8:43 AM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:New Zoning Proposal
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Completed
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

We are saying “No” to the new proposed zoning ordinance that wouldn’t triple the density for “rental housing” only.

Joseph Scarfi
7 Majorca Drive
Rancho Mirage
92270

Sent from my iPhone
4-541

1 Kristie Ramos, CMC
From:Marita Schaub
Sent:Tuesday, February 8, 2022 10:04 AM
To:Kristie Ramos, CMC
Subject:I say "NO" to new zoning
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Completed
CAUTION: This email originated from outside The City of Rancho Mirage. DO NOT CLICK links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Kristie Ramos & Rancho Mirage city council,
I am a home owner in Rancho Mirage.

Please vote NO to new zoning in the Thunder Road and Santa Rosas area.

Thank you.

Mary Rita Schaub
(818) 203‐8859

4-542

Rancho Mirage City CouncilMarch 3, 2022

Rancho Mirage City Council
March 3, 2022